The Alzheimer's Association has been a catalyst for a generation of advancements in Alzheimer policy, research and care on behalf of an estimated 5.3 million people with Alzheimer's disease in the United States. Founded in 1980 and headquartered in Chicago, the Alzheimer's Association is the leading advocate for Alzheimer policies that will improve the lives of these millions of Americans and their families.

To enhance and strengthen this work, the organization seeks to add a new position, Senior Director, Government Affairs, to lead Federal and State public policy efforts. This person will serve as the Association's chief lobbyist, and will manage the department of government affairs, a part of the Association's Public Policy and Advocacy division based in Washington, DC. The Senior Director will report to the division's Vice President, also based in the Washington office.

We seek an individual with an appreciation for the complexities of working within a large voluntary health organization. The successful candidate will have existing relationships with members of Congress, their staffs and other key policymakers, and a record of success in securing policy outcomes. Prior experience with policy issues involving medical innovation, aging, health and long-term care is highly desired.

The successful candidate must be a strong team player and enjoy working in a collegial yet highly demanding and effective culture. Demonstrated ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and operate with confidentiality will also be required as are excellent communication skills. In addition, the preferred candidate will have a strong mission orientation and a passion for advocacy on behalf of the Alzheimer's Association and the people it represents.

Responsibilities:

Utilize expertise in the Federal legislative and regulatory processes to develop strategies for furthering Alzheimer's Association advocacy goals.
Manage the Federal and State lobbying efforts, and act as the lead lobbyist on Capitol Hill, with the Administration and in the States.
Identify emerging public policy issues related to Alzheimer's disease to develop appropriate political responses and insert Alzheimer issues into Federal and State policy deliberations.
Cultivate key relationships with Members of Congress, Administration officials and their staff, and with key State policy makers.
Serve as a spokesperson on Alzheimer's policy issues, respond to press inquiries and establish a political network for response and engagement on key issues.
Work internally to ensure grassroots advocacy, communications and policy development efforts are coordinated with Federal and State lobbying strategies and needs.

Required:

Bachelor's Degree required.
A minimum of six years experience in government affairs.
A minimum of four years experience within Congress or in an Executive Branch position with legislative responsibilities.
Extensive knowledge of the health care political process and health care policy issues.
Strong presence, ability to influence others and communicate in a clear and compelling manner.
Proven record of managing staff and leading teams to accomplish significant objectives.
Ability to work long hours during legislative sessions.
Strong written and oral communications skills.
Proven negotiating skills, particularly in the context of the legislative process.

Preferred:

Senior level experience in government affairs; in Congress or in the Executive Branch preferred.
Expertise in biomedical research and drug development policy issues.
Familiarity with the appropriations process.
Advanced degree in a relevant discipline.

Please visit us at http://www.alz.org or apply directly at https://home.eease.com/recruit/?id=376273.